The Michigan Wolverines may not have a 2025 quarterback commit, but they have a rising star in the 2026 class. Brady Hart, a four-star recruit and the nation's 8th-ranked quarterback, has been committed to the Wolverines since June. With his impressive junior season statistics and a high ceiling, Hart could become Michigan's next great quarterback, following in the footsteps of J.J. McCarthy.

Unlocking the Potential of Michigan's Future Quarterback

Dominating the Gridiron: Hart's Standout Junior Season

Despite some early-season struggles, Brady Hart and the Cocoa High team finished their 2024 campaign on a high note, winning their final three games in convincing fashion. Hart was the driving force behind this turnaround, completing an astounding 82.76% of his passes for 969 yards, 11 touchdowns, and just one interception in those three games. On the season, the 6-foot-4, 180-pound quarterback threw for 2,898 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions, with a completion percentage of 70.2% and one rushing score.

Dissecting Hart's Strengths: A Quarterback's Toolkit

Brady Hart possesses a prototypical size for a quarterback, standing at 6-foot-4 with room to add more weight and muscle. His footwork within the pocket is solid, and he has the ability to make accurate throws even when off-platform. Hart has consistently had to win games with his arm while playing in a spread offense, showcasing his accuracy on intermediate passes and his ability to hit receivers in stride on slants, mesh routes, and shallow crossers. His throwing power is above average, and he can deliver deep balls with accuracy and touch, stepping into the throw rather than relying on a back-foot release.

Areas for Improvement: Adapting to Michigan's Offense

While Hart has demonstrated impressive skills, there are a few areas where he can continue to develop. He rarely threw with a moving pocket and played in an offense with little to no bootleg plays, which is a stark contrast to Michigan's scheme. Additionally, Hart wasn't asked to run often and was primarily a pocket passer, so he'll need to adapt to the Wolverines' more diverse offensive approach. His throwing motion could also become quicker and more compact, as evidenced by the three interceptions he threw in a loss to powerhouse IMG Academy.

The Next J.J. McCarthy? Lofty Comparisons and High Expectations

With his impressive skill set and potential, some believe that Brady Hart could be a difference-maker for the Wolverines, much like J.J. McCarthy was. McCarthy, who was selected 9th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings, had a 27-1 record at Michigan and led the team to a National Championship. Hart's trainer, Baylin Trujillo, believes that the young quarterback's "ceiling is so high" and that he "fits the mold of what Michigan does offensively," potentially becoming "the next J.J. McCarthy – but bigger and faster and could be even better."

Filling a Void: Michigan's Quarterback Conundrum and Hart's Arrival

Michigan's quarterback production has taken a step back in 2024 without McCarthy, ranking 129th in the nation in passing offense. For Wolverine fans, the arrival of a talent like Brady Hart can't come soon enough, even if they'll have to wait until 2026 at the soonest. The positive buzz surrounding Hart well before he steps foot on campus indicates that he has a high ceiling and the potential to become Michigan's next great quarterback.